Cal Cities-sponsored bill would reduce fire risk near urban communities

The bill would speed up wildfire preparedness while balancing environmental protections

By Melissa Sparks-Kranz, legislative affairs lobbyist

Asm. Damon Connolly today introduced a bill that would chart a clear path for removing vegetation in fire-risk areas next to urban communities. Sponsored by Cal Cities, AB 846 recognizes the need to increase the pace and scale of defensible space and other home hardening measures.

Addressing the threat of wildfires is a top priority for the Legislature this year, in part given the catastrophic impacts of the Los Angeles and Ventura counties firestorms. Cal Cities has for years elevated disaster preparedness as one of its top priorities, including at its advocacy-setting meeting late last year.  

“The devastating wildfires in southern California further underscore the need for the state to act quickly to accelerate wildfire preparedness efforts,” said Cal Cities Executive Director and CEO Carolyn Coleman. “Cal Cities is proud to sponsor AB 846, which will help us keep our residents and businesses safe by streamlining and enhancing our ability to reduce the growing threat of wildfires in and around our communities.”

What would AB 846 do?

The measure would create a clear way for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to process vegetation removal and fuel management projects in fire hazard severity zones near urban communities overseen by local governments.

Long timelines are delaying wildfire preparedness projects in the areas most at risk of catastrophic wildfires. Moreover, the size and severity of wildfires have increased dramatically in recent years: 20 of California’s most destructive wildfires have occurred over the past four years. January’s firestorms are likely the costliest wildfire in U.S. history.

AB 846 would not establish an automatic permit approval process. Instead, it would create a quicker way for the department to review local vegetation management projects. Cities would first submit an application to determine if they need a permit for the project. The department would have 90 days to review the application and 45 days to review permits. The department and local government could mutually agree to an extension if needed.

This streamlined process would increase communication between the department and local governments, provide timely certainty if permits are needed, and balance environmental considerations with community wildfire preparedness

Does this sound familiar?

Cal Cities sponsored this bill in 2024, which passed through the Legislature with bipartisan support and not a single no vote. Gov. Gavin Newsom ultimately vetoed the bill due to the potential fiscal impact it would have on the state. Cal Cities was eager to work with Asm. Connolly to reintroduce the measure this session and address the cost concerns.

What can your city do to support this measure?

The Legislature’s policy committees will be in full swing starting in mid-March. These meetings are great opportunities for city officials to voice their support. If your city would like to support AB 846, please reach out to your regional public affairs manager. Cal Cities will share sample support letters shortly and encourage all cities to support these important measures.